Helen is a member of the core team charged with developing Queen Mary's PGR Strategy working with the Dean for Postgraduate Research and Head of Doctoral College. She is responsible for producing reports to assess achievements against Queen Mary strategies, supporting strategic developments such as doctoral training grant proposals and research sandpits, and enabling effective PGR grant management across Queen Mary's three faculties. We met with her to chat about her day-to-day activities.
Q: What's a question that you wish someone would ask you about your job?
A: “How did I end up here?”
My career path has been diverse and far from straightforward, but it’s a story that resonates with those who are uncertain about their own career trajectory, especially after completing their PhD. Initially, I trained as an art historian and completed my PhD from the University of York in 2017. As a PGR, I taught modules and took on temporary research support roles, with the intention of pursuing a research-focused career.
However, circumstances change (like for so many), and I had to reassess my options. It was during this time that I made the decision to shift gears and pursue a career in teaching. I underwent training for secondary school education, aiming to explore new avenues outside of research.
Life, however, often surprises us, and when the pandemic emerged, I found myself being drawn back to the field of project management, ultimately leading me back to higher education and research management. This journey has felt like coming full circle, highlighting the often unpredictable nature of a career path.
The key takeaway from my experience is that you can never fully predict or prepare for where your career (or life) will take you, especially after obtaining a PhD. The PhD journey equips you with a diverse skill set that extends beyond research expertise. Skills such as project and programme management, data/information analysis, adaptability, empathy, patience, and resilience, and more, are all honed throughout the process. These skills continue to be valuable assets in my current role, where I strive to make complex concepts and processes accessible to those who need them the most.
Throughout my journey, I've always followed my instincts, recognised my strengths, and applied my skills to help others. It’s important for PGRs to embrace their own unique skillsets and trust their instincts when navigating their careers.
Q: How much ‘data’ is involved in your line of work?
A: In my role, data plays an important role, and I work closely with data analysts across Queen Mary who utilise PowerBI to generate various reports regarding our PGR community. These reports provide valuable insights into the size and composition of our PGRs. As part of my role, I assess and analyse the data presented in these reports, identify trends and patterns, and make the information more accessible and understandable. The ultimate goal of working with this data is to make informed decisions and implement changes that will benefit and effectively support our PGRs. PowerBI is an exceptional tool for data visualisation and analysis. I would highly recommend PGRs to consider taking training in PowerBI, as it enables them to create their own personalised dashboards. There are free one-day courses available through Microsoft where you can learn the fundamentals of PowerBI and create impactful visualisations.
Q: What part of this role in most difficult for you? And how do you resolve it?
A: One of the most challenging aspects is navigating the diverse range of departments and factions across the university. This includes finance, international partnerships, coordinating numerous doctoral training programmes, careers, and more! Each department has its unique priorities, processes, and stakeholders, which can create complexities that require effective collaboration and coordination.
One of my priorities is to proactively build relationships with colleagues across the university, spanning various roles and departments. I have found that simple acts like reaching out and inviting someone for a coffee can lead to successful outcomes and help expand my network of wonderful colleagues.
I also know the importance of creating networks and support systems within the university. For instance, I recently established a network specifically for those managing our doctoral training programmes. This network serves as a platform for sharing experiences, providing mutual support, and facilitating communication across the (many) different doctoral training programmes at Queen Mary.
While there is no magic solution, proactive measures such as seeking support and help and establishing networks can make a significant difference. By finding your “tribe” or network, you can tap into collective knowledge and resources.
My advice is if you can’t find a network – make one!
Q: What do you want the PGRs to know about research at Queen Mary?
A: I want PGRs to know that research at Queen Mary is guided by a strong commitment to excellence, innovation, and collaboration. Our institution strives to cultivate a nurturing and inclusive environment that encourages interdisciplinary research and provides abundant opportunities for personal and professional growth.
There is a diverse range of research interests, encompassing a broad spectrum of disciplines. We actively foster collaborations with industrial partners across London and throughout the UK, enabling our PGRs to engage in cross-disciplinary projects and benefit from a vibrant research ecosystem. These collaborations serve as valuable platforms for PGRs to excel in their research and develop new skillsets.
Our university values the importance of creating spaces where PGRs can thrive and achieve their full potential. We have dedicated staff members who are genuinely passionate about supporting impactful research and ensuring the success of our PGRs throughout their academic journey.
Q: Apart from work, what interests you the most?
A: During my PhD, I had the opportunity to spend a significant amount of time in Italy, Denmark, and the USA, which has fuelled my fascination with these countries. Denmark, in particular, holds a special place in my heart, and of course I’m a fan of true crime related to it!
Aside from that, I am actively involved in various projects that promote the arts, humanities, creative sectors, and social sciences in the UK. I believe in highlighting the immense value these fields bring to our society.
And, of course, I can’t forget a shout out to my cat, Alba. She’s the best companion and brings so much joy to my life (they really are misunderstood creatures).
Q: Personal advice on de-stressing and well-being
A: In addition to the typical advice for maintaining personal well-being (daily exercise, sleep hygiene, water!, consuming nutritious food), here are some things that help me: